"What Is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Fatigue and How Do You Defend Against Attacks?"
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a commonly employed security approach that requires the usage of two or more distinct authentication factors to verify the user's identity. Inadvertently, as MFA has become more prevalent in the commercial world, it has become more vulnerable to abuse by cybercriminals due to MFA fatigue. MFA is more secure than a username and password alone since it adds a second authentication layer, and it's increasingly necessary for platforms ranging from online banking to enterprise applications. MFA is more secure than not using it as all, but the process might be tiresome for users who previously just required a username and password stored in a password manager. Every time a user attempts to log in to their bank, online productivity suite, or work email, the user must accept the login attempt, which could be considered a laborious and frustrating task. This is the opportunity that cybercriminals try to exploit. A hacker attempting to get access to a user's account can send a push notification to their smartphone by submitting a username and password. These credentials can be obtained through various methods, such as by searching lists of alphanumeric combinations kept in a dictionary, guessing passwords, or using real credentials stolen via insider leaks, theft, or phishing. When the right username and password are entered, the push notification is activated. In a brute-force attack, malicious automated systems make numerous attempts, each of which generates a push notification. This is done with the expectation that the victim "approves" out of fatigue. The cybercriminal relies solely on the victim to authenticate the login attempt. Even though some users will be vigilant at all times, hackers just require a small percentage of users to gain access. In the end, MFA fatigue attacks depend on user error. This article continues to discuss the MFA fatigue attacks and how to defend against them.